What is a toroid transformer?
Simply stated, a toroid transformer is one that uses a toroid, or doughnut-shaped, core. Toroid cores may be made from long wound strips of steel for low frequency transformers, or made of ferrite materials for high frequency transformers. The round shape of a toroid core means there are no gaps, or breaks, in the magnetic flux line path, and therefore fewer magnetic losses. This is a distinct advantage in certain applications. The toroid cores themselves, as well as the specialized winding and assembly methods often render toroid transformers slightly more costly than other types.